I really liked all the work I got to do and how I got to crate actual change in the San Francisco community. I never felt like I was doing typical intern things (i.e. getting coffee, doing busy work for others). I loved getting to do field work and research and seeing how the two overlap. Every Friday was also a great experience because the SFMTA gets all the interns together for seminars and field trips. I got to know the other interns and learned about the different work done by the SFMTA. My coworkers were very nice and eager to teach me new things and wanted me to feel included.
What I wish was different
I wished that there had been more organization and communication from the agency prior to the internship. Their emails and information leading up to the start of the internship seemed pretty disorganized.
Advice
Don't be afraid to speak up for yourself and ask questions. While you are interning there, try out lots of new things. The SFMTA does a lot of different work, and you can learn a lot about many different fields all at this one agency, which is pretty unique.
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Student design trainee
May 2019 • San Francisco, CA
What I liked
Being able to learn about different aspects of the city.
What I wish was different
Nothing.
Advice
If you’re a transfer student this a great way of learning more about the city
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Student Trainee
June 2019 • San Francisco, CA
What I liked
This summer I was fortunate to be working in one of the leading transportation authorities of the west coast, the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency. I became acquainted with the small but hard working Signal Projects team, where I learned all the factors that go into designing or upgrading an traffic intersection. I loved how kind and knowledge my supervisors were and I built up a strong camaraderie with my fellow co-interns. I enjoyed the progressive work environment and the high standard my colleagues held themselves to in providing more efficient and equitable mobility services to the citizens of San Francisco.
What I wish was different
During my summer, I was lucky enough to sublease an apartment in San Francisco. However, I still wish for more affordable housing for the residents that need to stay in the area year round. The rental prices range from two to four times the amount I pay in Davis.
Advice
Join the Institute of Transportation Engineers! I learned so much from that organization that I believe it was what helped me gain my internship.
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Electrical Engineering Intern
June - September 2018 • San Francisco, CA
What I liked
I liked the people and the environment at SFMTA.
What I wish was different
I wish that I could have been there longer to learn more about the work culture.
Advice
Talk and network to as many people as you can to learn new things.
